EU and World Vision Support Livelihoods in Puntland
The European Union and World Vision, in partnership with the Ministry of Labour, Youth and Sports, launched the “Nugal Empowerment for Better Livelihood Project” aiming to improve the local economy in Puntland through training and business support.
The EU has been engaged in Somalia through a wide range of assistance measures that include development programs, active diplomacy, staffed missions and operations in support of rule of law, security and humanitarian assistance.
World Vision has long been working in different parts of Somalia, targeting areas which have some of the highest levels of child poverty in the world to achieve long-lasting results in the quality of life for vulnerable children and their families, displaced persons and communities.
With a total funding of 3 million EUR, the project will organize over the 3 coming years, training and non-formal education programs, small business support and community awareness around livelihood and human rights issues.
Through training, mentoring and networking support, the project, which is part of the Somali New Deal Compact, will enhance social cohesion and benefit approximately 24,000 Somalis of the most marginalized groups in Dangorayo, Eyl, Godobjiran, Garowe, and Burtinle districts of the Nugal region in Puntland.
The EU Ambassador to Somalia, Michele Cervone d’Urso, said “Skills development is vital for Somalia’s economy. The EU will continue to invest in education and vocational training as these are the country’s greatest assets to stimulate growth and employment.”
After years of civil war, Somalia faces the challenges of building peace and security, establishing democratic processes and institutions and strengthening human rights.
Real progress has been made in the horn of African country, but failure to address conflict drivers at all levels risks undermining further development.
